Are Parents Liable for an Accident Caused by Their Teen?
According to the CDC, teenage drivers between the ages of 16 and 19 have a car crash fatality rate that is nearly three times higher than drivers aged 20 and older. In California, parents or legal guardians can be held liable for accidents caused by their minor children.
When you entrust your teen child with a vehicle, either knowingly overlooking their driving limitations or failing to take appropriate precautions, you might face legal and financial repercussions. If your child's negligence has caused harm, it's important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your liability and obligations.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we offer comprehensive legal advice and representation for parents facing liability due to their children's actions. We can help analyze your case and develop a strategy for the best possible outcome. Located in Mission Viejo, California, we serve clients throughout Orange County. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Liability for Accidents in California
California operates under a "comparative fault" system. This means liability is assigned based on the degree of fault shared between parties involved in an accident. California's vehicle insurance laws require the at-fault party to compensate the other(s) for damages resulting from an accident.
If your teenager was driving without a valid driver’s license or caused an accident while breaking traffic laws, you may also be held liable for any resulting damages.
It's important to understand how California laws apply to your situation and explore the available options. At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our experienced attorney can assess your case, evaluate your child's legal rights, and advise on the best course of action.
Are Parents Liable for an Accident Caused by Their Teen?
Yes, parents can be held liable for their teenager's negligent or reckless actions when driving. This could result in the parent being required to pay for medical bills, property damage, and any other expenses or damages. Depending on the accident, both the parent and the teenager might be legally responsible.
In these situations, it's important to understand your legal rights and the ways parents or guardians could be liable for accidents caused by their teen. Some common scenarios include:
Negligent Entrustment
Negligent entrustment occurs when a parent allows their child to use a vehicle without proper training, experience, or license. If the teenager then causes an accident due to their lack of skill or knowledge, the parent can be held liable for negligent entrustment.
Vicarious Liability
According to California's "family purpose doctrine," parents may be held vicariously liable for damages caused by their minor children while operating a family car with permission. This includes situations where the parent knows or should know that the teen is not fit to drive safely. This principle also applies if the teen was driving someone else's car with the owner’s consent.
Failure to Supervise
Parents have a legal duty to supervise and control the actions of their children. If they fail to monitor or discipline reckless behavior such as speeding, texting while driving, or driving under the influence, they may be held liable for resulting accidents.
Signing Liability Agreement
In some cases, parents may sign a liability agreement when their teenager receives a driver's license or is added to their car insurance policy. California Vehicle Code Section 17707 states that parents or guardians who sign a driver’s license application for a minor are liable for damages caused by the minor’s negligence or willful misconduct when driving a car. This liability can extend to various expenses, including property damage, medical bills, and other compensation for pain and suffering.
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our experienced attorneys can guide you through these laws and help you understand your specific liabilities if your teen causes an accident while driving.
Will Insurance Cover Expenses?
If you have car insurance, your policy will typically cover damages resulting from accidents caused by your teen while driving. However, if the accident exceeds your coverage limits, you may be held personally liable for any additional expenses. California law requires drivers to have minimum insurance coverage that includes:
$15,000 for injury/death to one person in an accident.
$30,000 for injury/death to more than one person in an accident.
$5,000 for damage to property of another person.
It's important to review your insurance policy and make sure you have adequate coverage to protect yourself from financial liability in case of an accident caused by your teen. If you're unsure about your coverage or need assistance with a claim, our attorneys at the Law Offices of Steven Zwick can help guide you through the process.
Can a Parent Be Sued in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
Yes, parents can be sued in personal injury lawsuits if their teenage drivers cause accidents. While the specifics of each case can vary, they may face lawsuits for damages from the teen's actions and for any perceived negligence. In California, strict laws can hold parents financially responsible, even if they aren't directly involved.
The Importance of Professional Legal Assistance
If your teenager has caused an accident, it's essential to seek legal guidance as soon as possible. At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, our experienced car accident attorney can help you understand your rights and obligations in such situations. We can explore all available options and develop a strategy to protect your interests and defend against any claims brought against you.
Additionally, we can also help you file insurance claims or negotiate settlements to help cover damages. As a parent, it is important to take responsibility for your child's actions and work towards finding a resolution that benefits all parties involved.
Consult an Experienced Attorney Today
At the Law Offices of Steven Zwick, we believe in empowering parents with the knowledge and resources they need to handle an accident caused by their teen. Our attorneys strive to provide experienced legal counsel to help you understand your liabilities and obligations in auto accidents involving your teenager. Located in Mission Viejo, California, we serve clients throughout Orange County. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.